Publications
Partners
• We look at three new cars on sale for under R150 000.
• From the Suzuki S-Presso 1.0GL+ to the Mahindra KUV100 NXT K2+.
• Lots of value to be found in these three models.
• For more motoring stories, go to www.Wheels24.co.za
So you're looking for an affordable car, and your budget is R150 000. What are your options? Well, surprisingly you can get yourself into something new. They're all small, all hatchbacks, and hail from Asia.
Suzuki's S-Presso and Celerio are represented on our list. Launched in March this year, the S-Presso 1.0 GL+ with a five-speed manual gearbox, is powered by a tiny one-litre engine good for 50kW and 90Nm. In fact this model isn't even the cheapest one in the range, Suzuki offers a 1.0 GL model that retails for R139 900, and is the cheapest new car in South Africa.
Suzuki reckons the S-Presso's fuel economy is exceptional, claiming 4.9-litres for every 100km. The little S-Presso weighs just 770kg.
Next up is its Celerio sister. This little city car received an update in 2018 when Suzuki introduces a refreshed Celerio in GA and GL specification levels.
The Celerio is powered by a three-cylinder engine 1.0-litre capable of 55kW/90Nm. The 1.0 GA model , priced at R149 900, uses a five-speed manual transmission and fuel consumption is a claimed 4.7 litres/100km.
The GA model has everything you'd want from an entry-level car including power steering, aircon, vanity mirrors in both sun visors and a cover, and a shopping bag hook in the luggage area, as well as a 12V accessory socket as standard.
Safety-wise you can expect ABS brakes, dual front airbags, seat belts for five occupants, a high-mounted additional stop light, an immobiliser, and childproof rear door locks.
Which new budget car sparks your interest, or have you bought a new car recently you'd like to tell us about? Please email us here.
And finally, the last car on our list is the Mahindra KUV100 NXT K2+, it costs R148 999, and like the others it has a five-speed manual gearbox. The engine in the KUV100 is a little bigger at 1.2-litres and it produces 61kW and 115Nm.
The diminutive Mahindra boasts two airbags, ABS-brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, and an immobiliser and child locks as standard. Also included is a five year or 150 000km warranty and 24/7 roadside assistance.
Ultimately the choice remains with the consumer as to where he or she wants to buy, but it leaves no doubt that for R150 000 these three options will suit many entry-level car needs.
